How often do you have to clean shipping container floors? Any time after you use the container, especially if the process leaves a lot of debris.
Over time, the container’s floors can collect dirt, debris, chemical residues, and even mold, especially after use for shipping or storage.
In this article, we’ll teach you the best ways to clean shipping container floors, the tools that make the job easier, and what can go wrong if you don’t clean the floors properly!
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Why Cleaning Shipping Container Floors Matters
Shipping container floors usually use sturdy hardwood or marine-grade plywood that withstands heavy loads and harsh conditions.
Unfortunately, despite being durable enough to handle cargo weight, these floors are not immune to dirt, moisture, or contaminants.
Because of that, we can see how regular cleaning keeps the floor in good shape, prevents odors, and reduces the risk of pests or mold.
Regular cleaning also helps you spot early signs of damage, such as rot or delamination, before they become serious problems.
When you neglect floor cleaning, you risk exposing your stored items – or even yourself – to health hazards, structural damage, and unpleasant smells.
How to Clean Shipping Container Floors
Cleaning a shipping container floor isn’t complicated, but it does need some care and attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting the job done right!
1. Remove Loose Debris
Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove dust, dirt, and loose debris, especially if you want to use a pressure washer or scrubber, as loose material can clog drains or make cleaning less effective.
If the container is larger (like the 40′ variants), using an industrial vacuum or a wide push broom will save time and effort.
2. Assess for Contamination
If your container has been used to transport chemicals, hazardous materials, or food, you need to check for contamination before cleaning.
Look for spills, stains, or unusual odors. If you suspect hazardous residues, don’t start cleaning until you’ve identified the substance and received proper safety instructions.
If you think the contamination is severe enough and out of your depth, you may need to consult a professional cleanup service.
3. Choose the Right Cleaning Method
Depending on the condition of the floor and the type of dirt, you must choose the best cleaning method that suits the dirt’s characteristics.
4. Treat Mold and Mildew
If you find mold or mildew, scrub the affected area with a solution of mild soap and water. After scrubbing, let the area dry completely.
For extra protection, treat it with white vinegar to kill spores, then rinse and dry again. In severe cases, you may need to use a commercial mold remover.
5. Dry the Floor Thoroughly
After cleaning, make sure the floor dries completely before closing the container. Open the doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate, which helps prevent mold and keeps the container smelling fresh.
If you want to speed up the drying process, use something like fans or dehumidifiers.
6. Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, check the floor for signs of damage, such as cracks, soft spots, or delamination (layers separating).
Address any issues promptly to maintain the floor’s strength and safety. Small repairs can often be done with wood filler or epoxy, but extensive damage may require replacing sections of the floor.
Best Tools for Cleaning Shipping Container Floors
Having the right tools makes cleaning faster, easier, and more effective. Here’s what you can use to clean shipping container floors properly:
High-Pressure Washer
A high-pressure washer is one of the most effective tools for deep cleaning shipping container floors. It can blast away dirt, grime, and even stubborn stains with ease.
Electric models are great for lighter jobs, while gas-powered washers offer more power for tough cleaning tasks.
Just be careful not to use too much pressure, as it can damage the wood or protective coatings.
Steam Cleaner
Steam cleaners use hot water vapor to sanitize and break down grease, oil, and other tough residues.
They’re ideal for containers used for food or medical supplies, as steam kills germs without chemicals. Steam cleaning is also gentle on the floor and won’t strip away protective coatings.
Rotary Scrubber
Rotary scrubbers have spinning brushes that scrub floors and walls, making them perfect for removing old paint, rust, or heavy dirt.
They’re adjustable and can reach tight spaces, so you can clean every corner of your container. Some models come with attachments for different surfaces and levels of dirt.
Vacuum System
Industrial vacuums are great for removing dust, small debris, and non-liquid waste.
Models with HEPA filters are especially useful if you’re dealing with hazardous or toxic materials, as they trap harmful particles and prevent them from spreading.
If you’re cleaning larger containers, a backpack vacuum can make the job easier.
Foam Cleaning System
Foam cleaning systems apply a thick layer of cleaning foam to the floor, which sticks to surfaces and breaks down dirt and bacteria.
After letting the foam sit, rinse it off with water for a deep clean.
Manual Tools
If the dirt and debris aren’t bad enough, you can just keep a broom, mop, brush, and sponge on hand.
These tools are perfect for quick cleanups or for reaching areas that machines can’t. A stiff-bristle brush is especially good for scrubbing away tough stains or mold.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Shipping Container Floors Properly?
Neglecting to clean your shipping container floor can lead to a host of problems, some of which can be costly or even dangerous.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Moisture trapped in dirt or spills can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
These fungi not only cause unpleasant odors but can also damage the wood and pose health risks, especially for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
Mold spores can spread quickly, contaminating stored items and making the container unsafe to use.
Pest Infestations
Dirty floors attract pests like rodents, insects, and even birds. Once inside, pests can damage stored goods, chew through wiring, or create nests that are hard to remove.
Pest infestations can also lead to additional cleaning and repair costs.
Floor Damage and Decay
Accumulated dirt, moisture, and chemical residues can speed up the decay of the floorboards.
Over time, this can lead to rot, delamination, or soft spots that make the floor unsafe to walk on or support heavy loads. In extreme cases, you must remove the entire floor.
Contamination Risks
If your container has been used to store chemicals, food, or hazardous materials, failing to clean the floor properly can leave behind dangerous residues.
These residues can contaminate new shipments, cause health problems, or even violate safety regulations. In some industries, contaminated containers can result in fines or legal action.
Unpleasant Odors
Dirty floors can develop strong, lingering odors that are hard to eliminate. These smells can make the container unpleasant to use and may even affect the condition of stored items.
Even worse, odors can also attract pests and make it difficult to resell or repurpose the container.
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Conclusion
With the best equipment and practices to clean shipping container floors, your containers can last decades as promised. Contact Tradecorp today if you need to buy or rent a shipping container to meet your business needs properly!
